February is Canned Food Month

February is Canned Food Month, which to some may sound like another obscure observance. At Northern Illinois Food Bank, the occasion is cause for celebration as we recognize an enduring staple in the fight to end hunger.

Today the food bank is involved in a number of cutting edge programs designed to bring fresh meat, produce and dairy products to our hungry neighbors. While those initiatives have greatly expanded our ability to meet the needs of the community, there is no denying the important status canned foods have in food banking.

Convenient and portable, canned foods have long been an ideal source of donations to food drives held at schools, offices and churches. Revered for having a long shelf life, canned foods are also an important source of nutrition for individuals and families who can’t afford or don’t always have access to fresh produce.

Some things never go out of style, and given the many benefits of canned foods, it is no surprise they can be found in households everywhere. While some may take this convenience for granted, canned foods can be essential for individuals and families struggling to keep the fridge stocked with fresh alternatives.

At Northern Illinois Food Bank, a $1 donation buys $8 worth of groceries, which helps serve 60,000 people each week through our programs and partner feeding programs. Help us celebrate Canned Food Month by visiting SolveHungerToday.org to find out how you can donate, volunteer and get involved.